Q: I’ve had nothing but trouble...

Q: I’ve had nothing but trouble growing fuchsias in hanging baskets. Mine bloom only occasionally. Any ideas?--F.B., Gardena A: Fuchsias are moisture-loving plants that need a loose, well-drained soil mixture that is rich in organic matter. A mix of two parts loam, one part sand and one part organic material is good. If a good balance between bloom and foliage is to be reached, fuchsias need to be fed regularly. Every so often, give them a 0-10-10 bloom-promoter fertilizer, containing 10% phosphoric acid, 10% potash and 10% calcium. Note that it contains no nitrogen.

Overhead misting creates a moist atmosphere that is particularly beneficial during hot, windy weather. Whiteflies can be debilitating to fuchsias, so keep them in check with either Malathion or Diazinon sprays.

Q: My wife and I have traveled and seen beautiful gardens all over the world. Ponds filled with waterlilies are quite common everywhere but in Southern California. Why are there so few here?--C.V., Montebello A: I know of no reason. The gorgeous colors offered by waterlilies are among the most vivid in the plant kingdom. Waterscapes with waterlilies are not high-maintenance items. Their only requirements are sun and a watery environment. Waterlilies fill a very important role in a waterscape. Their pads reduce loss of oxygen from the pond surface and keep the water temperature cooler. Once established, they are bothered by only a few pests, such as aphids. Although the presence of fish will provide some aphid control, applying an oil spray to the foliage will clean up even heavy aphid populations.